Kidney cases surge in Gujarat as transplants rise by 50% in 10 years

Gujarat is witnessing a significant rise in kidney-related illnesses, with the number of transplants and dialysis cases increasing sharply over the past decade.

Data from the Kidney Hospital at Civil Medicity in Ahmedabad shows that the number of kidney transplants has increased by nearly 50% in the last 10 years. In 2016, the hospital conducted 341 transplants, a figure that rose to 500 in 2025.

Of the 500 transplants performed last year, 330 patients were from Gujarat, while 170 travelled from other states for treatment. Among these, 157 procedures involved cadaver donors, while 49 were conducted as swap transplants. Currently, the hospital carries out an average of more than two kidney transplants per day, excluding holidays.

A total of 436 transplants were performed in 2024 and 353 in 2023, indicating a steady increase in the number of patients requiring such procedures.

Alongside transplants, dialysis cases have also surged significantly. Under the Gujarat Dialysis Programme, more than 5.61 lakh dialysis procedures were recorded in 2025, translating to an average of approximately 1,538 patients undergoing dialysis each day.

Medical experts have expressed concern over the growing burden of kidney disease, particularly among younger individuals. The rise has been attributed to several factors, including an increase in diabetes and hypertension cases, unhealthy dietary habits, and lifestyle changes.

Doctors note that prolonged uncontrolled diabetes can severely damage kidney function. Additionally, higher consumption of salty, oily and processed foods, along with reduced water intake and lack of physical activity, are contributing to the trend.

The long-term use of painkillers and steroids without medical supervision has also been identified as a risk factor. In some regions, poor water quality, including high levels of fluoride and nitrates, may further aggravate kidney-related issues.

However, experts also point out that improved awareness and increased access to diagnostic facilities have led to more cases being identified at earlier stages, contributing to the apparent rise in numbers.